Try It On
n exploring conflict, commit to trying on different perspectives in the conflict. Draw out of a bowl a particular role with an attached explanation. Play that role in teams of…
Three Things About You
An activity that allows for exploration of diversity and elimination of stereotypes. Ask each person to write down three things that no one would know about them just by looking…
Wagonload of Compassion
Share individual stories of people in need. Identify what everyone can contribute. Where could we find the needed materials? Together as a group, deliver the donated items to a nearby…
Technology Blackouts
Set aside times during the day when no one in the family touches technology. Turn off all cell phones, televisions, computers, etc. Youth who are always engaged in technology are…
Structured Academic Controversy
An opportunity to explore controversial issues and divergent positions and work to reach consensus on what may have happened– highlighting the complexities of particular perspectives, opinions and events. Have youth…
Upstander
A person who recognizes when something is wrong and then acts to make it right; doing one’s best to help support and protect someone who is being mistreated; being socially…
Socratic Seminar
Titled after the Greek philosopher, Socratic dialogue transforms a student’s learning experience by allowing youth to generate and express their own ideas via the teacher asking questions as their primary…
Six Thinking Hats
A simple, effective parallel thinking technique developed by E. de Bono that helps people be more productive, focused, and mindfully involved. It forces people to move outside of their habitual…
Silk Road
The Silk Road carried trade from cultures embracing numerous religions and worldviews. Stretching from Italy to Japan, the Silk Road runs through Buddhist, Confucian, Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Shinto, and…
Shuttle Diplomacy
A strategy for people to use when they see potential for solutions but don’t feel comfortable or safe bringing their ideas up publicly. A form of shuttle diplomacy is asking…